Cons

No direct beach access

Tube TVs in some villas

Bottom Line

With two pools, water features, and lots of kids' activities, this mid-range timeshare property is heavily geared toward families. Golf lovers are also drawn to the Island Links Resort, given its close proximity to local courses. The spacious two- and three-bedroom villas are a highlight, though the decor is a bit plain and some rooms only offer tube TVs. The one major drawback is the property's distance from the beach, which is over a mile away and is best reached by car or bicycle. The resort does offer shuttle service to the beach during warmer months.

Oyster Hotel Review

A somewhat secluded property with attractive grounds and a relaxed vibe

The property offers a serene, family-friendly vibe, as it stands along a tranquil stretch that is off the main streets and surrounded by other private resorts. Sycamore trees arching over the road create an attractive entry to the beautiful grounds, which feature a large pond, walking trails, and a kid-oriented pool complex with fun water features in bright hues of orange, blue, and yellow.

The relaxed ambiance carries over into the reception area, where a couple of couches and wicker armchairs are clustered around a flat-screen TV. However, the plain decor -- which includes green carpeting and floral curtains -- give it somewhat of a generic feel.

The resort is close to a lot of main attractions in Hilton Head, including the Sea Pines Resort that houses the Harbour Town Golf Links and Sea Pines Forest Preserve, which is about a 15-minute drive away. It’s also a 10-minute walk to the Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club and a 10-minute drive to the Shipyard Golf Club.

The spacious two- and three-bedroom, wood-shingled villas have high ceilings and cheerful, yellow walls, with basic hotel-style decor that includes plain wood furniture and palm tree-patterned bedspreads. Units include at least two TVs (though not all are flat-screens), DVD players, and washer/dryers. Bathrooms have large vanities with ample countertop space. Some offer both showers and whirlpool tubs.

The kitchens are roomy and offer all the necessary appliances, including full-sized refrigerators, ovens, four-burner stoves, and tableware. There is plenty of space for dining, with breakfast bars and tables that seat eight. Some units include sunrooms.

Those guests who like the soothing sound of fountains may prefer the rooms that face the pool.

Family-oriented features include a child-friendly main pool and kids' activities

The resort definitely caters to families, with a kids' area that hosts plenty of activities, spacious grounds with shuffleboard courts and horseshoe pits, and a child-friendly main pool with fun water features. There’s also a smaller pool that is heated in the colder months, as well as an outdoor barbecue area with gas grills and a decent-sized fitness center with several treadmills and other cardio machines.